For the first time in 60 years, a sacred ritual was conducted at the Izumo Taisha, also known as the Izumo Grand Shrine in Japan. Known as the “Dai-Sengu”, it involved restoration works on the main hall of the shrine. Restoration of the hall carries particular significance because the gods enshrined in it are historically important to the Japanese people.
A limited number of Izumo fountain pens have been produced by the Platinum Pen Company in commemoration of the event, which took place in May 2013.
The Izumo fountain pen collection
The Platinum Pen Company was born in Shimane, Izumo-no-kuni. Company founder Shunichi Nakata christened the “Izumo” collection of fountain pens in 2010 with the blessing of city officials and to acknowledge the company’s origins. The city has in turn recognised the Platinum Izumo as one of the city’s designated “Izumo brands”.
The Yagumonuri craft technique
Yagumonuri is a traditional craft technique from Matsue City in Shimane Prefecture. The delicate artform has been applied to Platinum’s third Izumo fountain pen. The technique involves a time consuming and delicate maki-e process where coloured and metal powders are sprinkled on a lacquered pattern and overlain with several coats of transparent lacquer.
As time passes, the transparent lacquer increases in clarity and a form starts to emerge, transforming into a rich motif, a deep pattern encapsulated within a glossy finish – a sea of clouds which symbolises Izumo and gives the artwork a mysterious feel.
Product No: PIZ-80000
Barrel/Cap: Ebonite
Nib: 18K Gold
Nib Size: F(Fine), M(Medium), B(Broad)
Filling System: Cartridge or converter
